What are HAI

HAI occur in all settings of care including acute care within hospitals, same day surgical centers, ambulatory outpatient care in healthcare clinics, and long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities.

HAI are associated with a variety of causes including (but not limited to):

The use of medical devices, such as catheters and ventilators

Complications following a surgical procedure

Transmission between patients and healthcare workers

The result of antibiotic overuse

HAI Prevention: What Can You Do?

Be involved!

Be an active member of your health care team.

Take part in every decision about your health care.

Clean your hands. Wash your own hands thoroughly - use soap and running water for 15 seconds -after blowing your nose, after using the toilet and before eating or touching food or use alcohol-based hand rub if your hands are not visibly dirty.

Speak up!

Ask all health care workers and visitors who have direct contact with you whether they have washed their hands.

Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Make sure your doctor knows about any allergies and adverse reactions you have had to medicines.

Make sure that all of your doctors know about the medication you are taking. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, and dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbs.